Insights from the Raisina Dialogue

Context:

The annual Raisina Dialogue, a prestigious forum jointly organized by the MEA and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) serves as a platform for global leaders to address urgent issues facing the international community, attracting around 2500 participants from 115 countries in the latest edition. With the theme ‘Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create,’ the recent dialogue provided an opportunity to discuss the changing dynamics of the global landscape.

Relevance:

GS-2

• Groupings and Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India’s Interests
• Global Groupings
• Effect of Policies and Politics of Countries on India’s Interests

Mains Question:

Discussing the outcomes of the recently concluded Raisina Dialogue, highlight the important role played by think tanks in the realm of building international relations. (15 Marks, 250 Words).

The Raisina Dialogue:

• Modelled after the Shangri-La Dialogue, the Raisina Dilaogue is a key element of India’s “intelligence diplomacy,” operating behind the scenes but playing a crucial role in the national security framework alongside the diplomatic corps and armed forces.
• The conference, hosted in New Delhi, brings together individuals from political, business, media, and civil society backgrounds.
• Structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion, the Dialogue involves heads of state, cabinet ministers, and local government officials, collaborating with thought leaders from the private sector, media, and academia.
• The Observer Research Foundation (ORF), a Delhi-based think tank, partners with the Ministry of External Affairs to organize the conference.

Raisina Dialogue 2024:

Thematic Pillars:

1. Tech Frontiers: Regulations & Realities
2. Peace with the Planet: Invest & Innovate
3. War & Peace: Armouries & Asymmetries
4. Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions & Inclusion
5. The Post 2030 Agenda: People & Progress
6. Defending Democracy: Society & Sovereignty

• A significant highlight of the recent Raisina Dialogue was External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s call for reforms in the United Nations and the Security Council.
• This call underscored India’s advocacy for a more inclusive global governance system that reflects the contemporary world order and acknowledges the emergence of new global powers.
• The conversations during the Raisina Dialogue delved into the intricate geopolitical dynamics involving Russia. India advocated for a well-balanced approach that offers Russia various options beyond closely aligning with China.
• This stance, amidst differing opinions from Western nations, reflects India’s strategic positioning as a ‘middle power,’ capable of skillfully navigating between conflicting global interests.
• The recent event in New Delhi tackled crucial topics, including discussions on the Indo-Pacific security framework, demonstrating India’s dedication to regional stability and collaboration.
• Moreover, discussions on cultural rebalancing and challenging biased narratives underscored India’s dedication to fostering more equitable representation in global diplomacy and questioning the existing status quo.

Significance of Think Tanks like the Raisina Dialogue:

Diverse Discussions:

• The significance of the Raisina Dialogue extends beyond its distinguished participants, encompassing its ability to generate discussions that go beyond conventional diplomatic channels.
• Through multilateral conferences and facilitated dialogues, think tanks such as ORF play a vital role in bringing together stakeholders from like-minded states to formulate solutions to shared challenges.
• By offering an informal space for the exchange of ideas among states, these dialogues promote discussions and cooperation on a broad spectrum of issues, ranging from security and defense to trade and climate change.

Impacting Policy Making:

• Think tanks play a crucial role in shaping and implementing policies, particularly in the context of India. While the Prime Minister and government officials articulate policies, the intellectual capabilities of these institutions significantly influence India’s cultural diplomacy landscape.
• The growing recognition of their impact on foreign policy is evident, as the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India actively utilizes their expertise to advance the country’s interests globally.
• The Raisina Dialogue highlighted India’s influence in shaping the future world order and its assertive stance on the global stage.

Noteworthy Participation:

The Raisina Dialogue draws in notable participants spanning politics, defense, diplomacy, academia, and journalism. Over time, it has hosted distinguished figures like former Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy:

• The Raisina Dialogue serves as a platform for think tanks to share insights on how India’s cultural diplomacy can nurture mutual understanding and respect among nations.
• These institutions provide recommendations on utilizing cultural heritage, soft power assets, and digital platforms to enhance India’s global influence.
• At its essence, the Raisina Dialogue underscores the increasing significance of think tanks in shaping international relations and cultural diplomacy.
• Furthermore, think tanks have a rich history of influencing foreign policy and diplomacy, with roots dating back to the Cold War era. Examples such as the Dartmouth Conference and the Neemrana Dialogue stand out as initiatives that facilitated unofficial dialogues between adversaries, resulting in confidence-building measures and collaboration on crucial issues.
• Leading think tanks, including the Observer Research Foundation, India Foundation, and Vivekananda International Foundation, play a pivotal role in shaping policies that showcase India’s cultural heritage and values on the global stage.
• Through extensive research, analysis, and strategic recommendations, these institutions foster dialogue and cooperation between India and other nations. The prominence of Indian think tanks in cultural diplomacy has seen a notable rise in recent years.
• Entities like India Foundation and Vivekananda International Foundation have taken proactive measures, offering innovative solutions and policy frameworks for cultural exchange programs, educational initiatives, and fostering people-to-people connections.
• Moreover, think tanks collaborate with universities and academic institutions to strengthen cultural bonds through educational exchanges, research partnerships, and language programs.
• By involving a range of stakeholders, including civil society, diaspora communities, and international organizations, they amplify India’s cultural narrative and facilitate intercultural dialogue.

Conclusion:

Through their research and advocacy initiatives, these think tanks actively contribute to shaping a dynamic and inclusive cultural diplomacy agenda for India. They not only play a vital role in promoting mutual understanding across cultures but also work towards dispelling cultural stereotypes associated with India in the Western world. By emphasizing India’s rich diversity and pluralistic ethos, they challenge misconceptions and foster a more nuanced appreciation of Indian culture and society.